The quality of a capsule depends on several factors including raw material, manufacturing method, packaging and storage. The best way to ensure your capsules are ready for use is to keep them in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight and heat.
Capsule size and shape - Gelatin, HPMC or both?
A quality capsule must be sized properly to suit your needs. A good rule of thumb is that the larger the capsule, the more active ingredients and excipients you can cram in there.
Gelatin or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) are two of the most common materials used to make capsules, both derived from plant cellulose. Both have their pros and cons.
Capsule storage – Hard GelatinCapsule:
A well-designed capsule container can be used to store empty capsules for long periods of time. A suitable environment should be a temperature & humidity controlled area, such as a cold room.
Water condensation may result in a poor capsules performance, so avoiding this is advised.
The biggest challenge is ensuring your capsules are stored in a dark, dry place with a low relative humidity and preferably no sunlight.
In addition, a properly sealed and labelled bottle should be kept in a dry place. The label should include the name of the manufacturer, product code and expiry date.
This will ensure you have the right product in the right place at the right time and keep your capsules in tip-top condition. You can also use a moisture sensor or an airtight container to store your empty capsules. The best time to do this is at night or when your capsules are not being opened.